How long did it take a wagon train to go from St Louis to Oregon?
How long did it take a wagon train to go from St Louis to Oregon? The length of the wagon trail from the Missouri River to Willamette Valley was about 2,000 miles (3,200 km). It normally took four to six months to traverse the length of the Oregon Trail with wagons pulled by oxen.
How much did an Oregon Trail wagon cost?
These wagons typically would cost about $400 (approximately equivalent to $13,000 in 2022). The wagons had wooden hoops that went from one side to the other which were covered by a canvas top which would be waterproofed with linseed oil. The canvas protected the migrants and their possessions from weather and the sun.
How much did it cost to join a wagon train?
When a family decided to join a wagon train, it often had to save money for three to five years before it could even begin the journey. The wagon cost around $400. The cost of the trip with supplies could be as much as $1,000.
What was a typical day on the Oregon Trail?
A typical day began at 6 AM with a breakfast of cold leftovers before the wagon train lined up and set out. A knowledgeable captain led the way, pacing the wagons to reach good pasture and water at noon and before sundown. The trail was rough, full of holes and rocks, so riding in a wagon was bumpy and uncomfortable.
How common were Indian attacks on wagon trains?
Surprisingly, considering how many wagons went West, very few faced attacks by the Indians. A well-led and disciplined train was more likely to get through without problems. The opposite was often true for small trains where discipline was lacking.
How long would it take a wagon train on the Oregon Trail to travel 2000 miles?
The length of the wagon trail from the Missouri River to Willamette Valley was about 2,000 miles (3,200 km). It normally took four to six months to traverse the length of the Oregon Trail with wagons pulled by oxen.